Substance Misuse

Substance Misuse

Substance misuse is defined as the excessive use of psychoactive drugs, such as alcohol, pain medications, or illegal drugs, which can lead to physical, social, or emotional harm. 

Signs of substance abuse

Emotional and Behavioral 

  • Aggression
  • Mood swings
  • Withdrawal from usual activities or hobbies or activities 
  • Sudden changes in friendships
  • Sudden financial problems or a need for money

Physical

  • Slowed or unsteady coordination
  • Tooth decay
  • Excessive talking and hyperactivity
  • Tremors or shaking hands, feet, or head
  • Weight change

Marijuana use

On February 22, 2021, Governor Phil Murphy signed adult-use cannabis reform bills into law legalizing and regulating cannabis use and possession for adults 21 years and older, and decriminalizing marijuana and hashish possession. Governor murphy also signed Bill S3454, regarding clarifying marijuana and cannabis use and possession penalties for individuals younger than 21 years old. 

Governor Murphy Signs Historic Adult-Use Cannabis Reform Bills Into Law

Use and Possession of Marijuana is Prohibited on Campus

New Jersey City University is committed to maintaining an alcohol and drug-free environment/workplace in compliance with applicable laws. 

Despite current legislations, University policy prohibits the possession, use, sale, or manufacture of cannabis on or near the campus of New Jersey City University or University-sponsored activities away from campus.

On Campus Resources

Counseling Center 

Gilligan Student Union, Room 308

Phone: 201-200-3165

counselingcenter@njcu.edu

Additional Resources 

Addictions Hotline of New Jersey: 

  • Dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-238-2333
  • Available 24/7

Marijuana Anonymous 

  • MA World Services 1-800-766-6779

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline:

  • A free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
  • Call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • Visit the online treatment locator, or send your zip code via text message: 435748 (HELP4U) to find help near you.

Apps

Marijuana Anonymous App

This is the official 12 Step recovery app of Marijuana Anonymous. Anyone with a desire to stop using marijuana will benefit from the useful tools and resources included. 

Grounded: Quit Weed Smoking App

A quit smoking tracker to quit cannabis

Informational Resources 

National Institute on Drug Abuse

  • The lead federal agency supporting scientific research on drug use and its consequences. Their mission is to advance science on the causes and consequences of drug use and addiction and to apply that knowledge to improve individual and public health

National Health Information Center 

  • Supports public health education and promotion by raising awareness about National Health Observances. NHIC helps connect health professionals and consumers to organizations that best answer their questions by providing up-to-date contact information for the most reliable resources. 

Families Anonymous 

  • A 12 step program for the family and friends of those individuals with drug, alcohol or related behavioral issues. 

American College Health Association (ACHA) 

  • Their mission is to advance the health of college students and campus communities through advocacy, education, and research.